The Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is a unique pulsing wetland. More correctly an alluvial fan, the delta covers between 6 and 15 000 square kilometres of Kalahari Desert in northern Botswana and owes its existence to the Okavango (Kavango) River which flows from the Angolan highlands, across Namibia’s Caprivi Strip and into the harsh Kalahari Desert.
There is a dynamic seasonal shift of animals between the arid region that surrounds the delta and the Okavango Delta itself. During the wet season most large animals move away from the delta to take advantage of the lush grazing that surrounds it. As this grazing begins to die in the winter animals move back to the delta.
Wildlife of the Okavango Delta includes a myriad of species including African Bush Elephant, African Buffalo, Hippopotamus, Lechwe, Topi, Blue Wildebeest, Giraffe, Nile crocodile, Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, Brown Hyena, Spotted Hyena, Greater Kudu, Sable Antelope, Black Rhinoceros, White Rhinoceros, Plains Zebra, Warthog and Chacma Baboon. Notably the endangered African Wild Dog still survives within the Okavango Delta and exhibits one of the richest pack densities in Africa.
Wildlife
The Okavango Delta is a haven for wildlife. You will find a diverse variety of game due to the abundance of ecosystems and the conservation efforts in protecting these precious species. Many animals call the delta home, while others appear seasonally. Since conservation and wildlife management are a priority in Botswana, the delta has become a very rewarding destination in Africa for wildlife viewing.
The Diversity of the Okavango Delta
The incredibly varied and rich eco-systems found in and around the Okavango Delta attract a stunning variety of wildlife. It is the incredible variety and concentration of animals and birds which has earned it the reputation as one of the top safari destinations in Africa.
Flora and Fauna of the Okavango Delta
The aquatic environment of the Okavango has helped to develop a rich and complex eco-systems with thousands of tree and plant species which support the diverse wildlife found in the Okavango.
The diversity of the Okavango and surrounding areas is quite staggering. From Papyrus lined waterways peppered with lilies to open grass plains dotted with palm trees and wild sage, mopane forrests and the ancient baobab trees and acacia.
Common trees include the Candle Pod Acacia (Acacia hebeclada), Leadwood (combretum imberbe), Jackalberry (Diospyros mespiliformis), Marula (Sclerocarya birrea), Sausage Tree (Kigelia Africana) and the Knobthorn tree.